Although I was a tobacco smoker for years, I've never smoked pot. (In Alaska it's still legal to have up to a certain amount upon you) I agree with those who think the decision to ban marijuana was a political one, because it makes no sense to accept and regulate alcohol which has far wider repercussions.

It is bemusing to see just how deeply ingrained the ban has become- the benefits of hemp, which is related to the same plant family but has no 'salutatory' effects, are well known. It is a fibrous, quick-growing plant that has many uses from paper to rope and on. Yet even hemp is illegal.